Thursday, 26 Apr 2018
Ernest Charles Whitaker, 83 of Merritt, B.C passed away peacefully on Thursday April 26, 2018 at Gillis House Merritt, after a long battle with cancer. Ernie is survived by his wife of 58 years Pamela Whitaker, daughter Charlotte (Philip) Carter, son Victor Whitaker, daughter Carmen (Craig) Sicotte, sister Dorothy Dodge, his Dodge nephews, Doug and Dale, and niece Carrie. He was a constant delight to his loving grandchildren, Janine, Trevor, Arthur Sicotte and Chris and Hannah Carter. Ernie spent most of his working life as a crash rescue firefighter and officer in Prince George, Port Hardy and Terrace after three years in the Canadian Navy. He was a first aid instructor, a superb outdoorsman, a talented comic actor, an amateur athlete, especially proficient in boxing, hockey, baseball and curling. Animals adored him, particularly dogs and horses. At age 45, Ernie had a profound spiritual awakening that coloured the remainder of his life. He dedicated himself to Jesus Christ and to loving all people in his path. Ernie learned the power of forgiveness and lived his life with openhearted passion and a deep, abiding joy. He had the magnificent gift of humour and abundant generosity that lifted the hearts of many.
In 1997, Ernie and Pam moved to Merritt and spent their retirement fishing, mushroom-picking, and for 15 cherished years, managing the ‘Soup Bowl’ at the Anglican Church Hall. Ernie had a vibrant, indelible personality that endeared him to so many people. He will be sorely missed. “The glory of God is man fully alive.” (St. Ignatius) “Oh, Lord, for just one day of boredom.’ (Pamela Whitaker) A special thanks to Gillis House and Merritt Home Care nursing for all your care and support. There will be a Celebration of Life for Ernie at Crossroads Community Church, 2990 Voght St. on June 2, @ 2pm.
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